Wifi vs clear connect. Much more extensive product line. Easy automation integration. TP-Link isn't even in the same league.
-
Our native mobile app has a new name: Fora Communities. Learn more.
TP-Link smart switch vs Lutrons RadioRA2
Was considering Lutrons RadioRA2 for smart lighting in a new build. Came across TP-Link switches, which are $35. Yet to get pricing for Lutrons RadioRA2 switches, based on other Lutron products would be close to 3 times TP-Link price.
What is similar, what are the differences in terms of functionality...
What is similar, what are the differences in terms of functionality...
1 - 20 of 20 Posts
How many weeks/months/years do you want support of this product?
My experience with most lighting has been pretty poor. The entirely proprietary nature is typical, but the lack of support is tremendous. Lutron is Lutron, but they have a very open level of documentation.
Just search for Lutron Serial Protocol to see how much open documentation there is.
Maybe if you are looking for phone control, and basic Alexa/Google integration they will work perfectly. But, for how long? What about when things change to something new? Will they have an interface for that new solution? Are you out buying switches again?
I used Insteon, which isn't cheap, but has poor documentation, and non-existent support. I am finally at the point where all the switches will go away in favor of Radio RA as I can put it into place.
My experience with most lighting has been pretty poor. The entirely proprietary nature is typical, but the lack of support is tremendous. Lutron is Lutron, but they have a very open level of documentation.
Just search for Lutron Serial Protocol to see how much open documentation there is.
Maybe if you are looking for phone control, and basic Alexa/Google integration they will work perfectly. But, for how long? What about when things change to something new? Will they have an interface for that new solution? Are you out buying switches again?
I used Insteon, which isn't cheap, but has poor documentation, and non-existent support. I am finally at the point where all the switches will go away in favor of Radio RA as I can put it into place.
Lutron also has smaller scale products, like Caseta and RA2 Select. TP-Link is below the scale of Caseta.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Thank you all for the details.
I had a quick question, why do we need a 3-way smart switch, could we not use the interface ….
I had a quick question, why do we need a 3-way smart switch, could we not use the interface ….
3-way smart switch circuits require ‘companion’ switch, like Z-wave at one of the circuit. The companion switch is a controller for the switch. Exception is Lutron Caseta that does not have companion, but uses a Pico in a wall plate adapter paired with the switch or bridge (hub). Lutron RA2 has a remote switch for 3-way.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
3-way switches are a 1 for 1 electrical replacement of your original switches. The wiring is typically already in place in a structure before 'smart' switches are installed.Thank you all for the details.
I had a quick question, why do we need a 3-way smart switch, could we not use the interface ….
Following existing electrical code for all wiring is good form. This way if you decide to abandon smart switches and put in standard switches, you may do so.
As well, existing electrical setups which use 3-way switches can easily be upgraded to all types of smart switches without worry of compatibility with the wiring.
So, in a room which has two existing switches that control the same light, often found on stairs at the top and bottom, you would use a 3-way switch and a companion switch to offer local light control to people on the stairs.
This is a new build, so we can setup as needed. Having said that, I never though that one would have to go from smart switches to undo (non)smart switches. But never say never.... Have anyone of you experienced this or know anything about this, please share your experience, that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!3-way switches are a 1 for 1 electrical replacement of your original switches. The wiring is typically already in place in a structure before 'smart' switches are installed.
Following existing electrical code for all wiring is good form. This way if you decide to abandon smart switches and put in standard switches, you may do so.
As well, existing electrical setups which use 3-way switches can easily be upgraded to all types of smart switches without worry of compatibility with the wiring.
So, in a room which has two existing switches that control the same light, often found on stairs at the top and bottom, you would use a 3-way switch and a companion switch to offer local light control to people on the stairs.
I've gotta say that smart switches are designed, to my knowledge, as one-for-one replacements of existing light switches except for the ridiculous stuff from Philips.This is a new build, so we can setup as needed. Having said that, I never though that one would have to go from smart switches to undo (non)smart switches. But never say never.... Have anyone of you experienced this or know anything about this, please share your experience, that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
While it is up to you, there is no way that I wouldn't wire a home using traditional electrical code standards for switches and install smart switches in place of standard switches in all locations. This is not to go back to 'dumb' switches, but to upgrade to newer switches. As well, since budget is often part of the process, if I can't do all my switches in one go, then I can do some to start with and add more switches later on if I want to and as budget permits.
"While it is up to you, there is no way that I wouldn't wire a home using traditional electrical code standards for switches and install smart switches in place of standard switches in all locations."
Builder has it setup for standard switches. We have to now convert to smart switches, I'am moving location of switches and adding couple of keypads and adding a bunch of Alexa/Google/Siri's for easy reach. In the process also removing 3-way and 2-way switches as the same functionality would be achieved by the added keypad/Alexa.
This is a very basic approach, any tips would be appreciated in converting this plan to smart switches plan. We plan to do the whole house, just to keep it simple.
Builder has it setup for standard switches. We have to now convert to smart switches, I'am moving location of switches and adding couple of keypads and adding a bunch of Alexa/Google/Siri's for easy reach. In the process also removing 3-way and 2-way switches as the same functionality would be achieved by the added keypad/Alexa.
This is a very basic approach, any tips would be appreciated in converting this plan to smart switches plan. We plan to do the whole house, just to keep it simple.
I put RA2 in my new build. Perhaps 50 switches, thermostats, Lutron blinds, motion sensors, garage door controller, etc.
I’ve had it for 4 months and it has been a great experience. The app is great too.
We wired / hid most switches in laundry room and closets.
It is really nice touching a single button and dimming an entire room, zone or entire floor (or turning of other areas). We have single gang 3-6 button switches around the house instead of 3-5 paddle dimmers marking up the walls.
Really like the RA2. The switches are nicer looking than C4. Super pleased!
I’ve had it for 4 months and it has been a great experience. The app is great too.
We wired / hid most switches in laundry room and closets.
It is really nice touching a single button and dimming an entire room, zone or entire floor (or turning of other areas). We have single gang 3-6 button switches around the house instead of 3-5 paddle dimmers marking up the walls.
Really like the RA2. The switches are nicer looking than C4. Super pleased!
Great! Did you have to go through a dealer? what was pricing like, how much for switches and how much to setup
Yeah, these are not really even comparable to be honest. One is very high-end for big projects... The other can just be used in whatever way.
I did not go through a dealer and bought switches on line and a through a buddy who had access to Lutron products through his work. All in was probably $8K - $10K for all Lutron equipment (thermostats, switches, 2 Grafik Eyes Garage controller, Main and Aux repeaters, etc).Great! Did you have to go through a dealer? what was pricing like, how much for switches and how much to setup
The home is 4500 sq ft. I did the entire first floor, garage, master bedroom, master bath, and his, her closets, 2nd floor hallways, portion of basement and theater. Perhaps 80% of the entire home. Now I did not pay for device installation per se as I had builder install these instead of the switches he was contracted to place. Wiring was also no extra charge as we ran the same number of wires - just to different areas to hide switches.
Note sweet looking Lutron integrated thermostat in a dual gang box with button switch. Pretty sweet.
Lutron shades are very expensive (~$10K - $11K for 5 shades, power supplies and installation). For these, I went through a dealer.
Thermostat on left side. Nice way to place control in main area and avoid esthetic issues of typical large thermostat
.
3
I notice you didn't use the claro wall plates. Aesthetic choice?
Yes. I had some Claro plates to try but I fond them too thick.I notice you didn't use the claro wall plates. Aesthetic choice?
Yeah seem a little thick to me too. We will try it on wall when we get to that point months from now but good to know I'm not alone.
Can you buy RadioRa switches on-line, I was under the impression that only dealers can sell these...
Yes, there are several places online. A search will turn them up. Fine for a switch or two but I'd urge to at least find a local or online dealer to get a quote if you have a lot to order, maybe they aren't any more expensive and you can support local business.
You are right, supporting local business.
1 - 20 of 20 Posts
- This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
AVS Forum
A forum community dedicated to home theater owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about home audio/video, TVs, projectors, screens, receivers, speakers, projects, DIY’s, product reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!
Full Forum Listing
Recommended Communities
